September 5, 2021

Ridgeline Study Prompts

 Acts 12

Prayer and Preparation

It’s easy to read Scripture, be fascinated by the story, study the context, and still not gain wisdom that can be applied in our lives. Let’s remind ourselves we don’t read the Bible to finish (or be entertained by great stories), we read the Bible to be changed. Take a minute to pray that the Lord would change you as you study His word.

Study

In the Gospels and in Acts we often see the name Herod - but there are actually several Herods. Herod the Great was the one who tried to kill the baby Jesus. Herod Antipas was his son and the one who ruled over Jesus’ trial. He also had John the Baptist murdered. Herod Agrippa I was the grandson of Herod the Great. This is the Herod of our story this week (Herod Agrippa II will show up at the end of Acts). What seem to be the similarities between the 3 Herods we’ve met so far? How are they alike in their leadership and actions?

Believers gathered to pray for Peter as he sat in jail, likely awaiting the same fate as James. It would be assumed they prayed for his deliverance. Yet when he was actually delivered and showed up at their door, they didn’t believe at first. Are their times we have prayed, but then responded with disbelief and skepticism as God began to answer our prayers? What are some of the reasons for our unbelief? What makes it hard at times to believe that God is actually answering us?

Even though the persecution escalates, the word of God increased and multiplied. What does this remind us and assure us about God’s kingdom, His church, and the Gospel?

Application

Are there areas in your life where it feels like the enemy is winning? Just like God dealt with Herod and provided for His people, God will take care us. Write down some reminders (Scripture, past experiences, etc.) that God wins. Despite the setbacks, God is at work. Testify to this below.